Gene experiments banned on humans

Published: Thursday, May 25, 2000

PHILADELPHIA {AP} An experiment that killed an Arizona teen-ager last fall has prompted the University of Pennsylvania to halt all human research at its gene therapy institute and restrict its studies to animals.

Penn President Judith Rodin said Wednesday the university will also strengthen oversight of gene therapy research and other clinical trials and review its policies on conflict of interest.

"We expect our researchers to adhere to the highest scientific and medical standards.," she said.

The institute came under investigation last fall when 18-year-old Jesse Gelsinger died four days after receiving experimental therapy there.